East Coast Other

East Coast Other Towns Regional Information

Out of the central Gisbourne area, the other towns of the East Coast (or East Cape, as it is also known) boast sunny weather, beautiful beaches and access to natural nature parks and cultural landmarks.

The region is primarily made up of forested areas inland, including Te Urewera National Park in the west and the Kaingaroa Forest just beyond the National Park. Mount Hikurangi rises to a height of 1,620 metres and is a dominant feature within the region.

Steeped in cultural history, the East Coast is the place at which Maori and European peoples first encountered one another, as well as being the site where the first Polynesian migration canoes landed and where the English explorer Captain Cook took his first steps on the soil of New Zealand. Today, the region's population has the highest proportion of Maori in any region of New Zealand and retains links to Maori traditions.

Wairoa, meaning 'long water' in Maori, is the southern gateway to the region where visitors enjoy water sports, fishing, boating and day walks. It is also the site of the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, a multi-day tramp which is regarded as one of New Zealand's top 10 walks.

Opotiki is situated at the meeting point of the Waioeka and Otara Rivers. It also marks the point at which the road diverges: State Highway 2 continues through the native bush filled Waioeka Gorge and over to Gisborne; State Highway 35 takes you onto the Pacific Coast Highway and around the spectacular East Cape to the same city.

Make sure you use the East Coast map for a detailed idea of how to navigate the East Coast region.